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We are quick to call out the bad guys for their toxic masculinity. But sometimes we overlook the women who are adding to the discourse. And dampening the spirits of other girls in their tribe...

Ladies who judge ladies for deciding to be child-free. Girls who criticize girls for wearing too much make-up, or not enough... Mothers that call out moms who opted for a C-section, or didn’t breastfeed. Often, women don't even realise how harmful their remarks or actions are.

But thankfully there's a whole movement of women standing up, and calling out, toxic femininity. They're shouting loud, for those at the back. Naming the behaviors and traits that need to go down the drain.

Someone recently asked, "We know what toxic masculinity looks like -- what does toxic femininity look like to you?" and netizens didn't hold back. Bored Panda has put together a list of the best replies, and some might surprise you. Upvote the ones you agree with, and feel free to add your own views in the comments section below.

#1

Newborn baby wrapped in a blanket held close to mother in a hospital setting representing toxic femininity behaviors. Discrediting mothers who gave birth via c-section.

blackberry-slushie , EyeEm Report

Lucifer
Community Member
4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Who does such awful judging? There could be a plethora of reasons for C-Section. Pregnancy & delivery are complicated processes. Not every time things go according to plan.

Chips&FriedRice
Community Member
4 months ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We need the c-section babies in case Macbeth appears

Motherofguineapigz
Community Member
4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My daughter was breech. Midwife wanted me to have her turned. Too many complications can arise. C-section is recommended for breech babies. No I didn't go into labor. However, I have passed 10 kidney stones - wanna trade?

Tonyah Mcanelly
Community Member
4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was told that I was lazy and C-Sections are not real births . I had no choice It was an emergency C section . With out it I would have lost my child . this was coming from a person who has never experienced pregnancy. Regardless of how the child enters this world a birth is a birth .

Crystalwitch60
Community Member
4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It really is lovely x the lazy ones are the to posh to push crew ie the social media lot who also demand a tummy tuck at same time 🙄🤦‍♀️ but your reply to those idiots as say that to you ! Should be so how many babies have you had ?? none right ok shut it then ! Or well it’s like this ,I could have tried to have my child naturally, it 100% she would have died ! !!! now you were saying !! Blessed be , ❤️

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Ge Po
Community Member
4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hey, it's a 9 month medical marathon, leading up to a somewhere between 2 to, like, 50 hours or so extreme sprint. A sprint which, pain medication or not, is taking as much toll on the body as a surgery. Loss of blood, damaged structures, hormonal chaos. To have this surgery performed on you by your own body through the system that was in place, or with the help of surgeons who take the alternative route when said system fail, is irrelevant. The stress on your body is just as hard, if not harder, because your body will still push out all the hormones and fluids that are involved with a natural birth, including the ones that cause contractions. And then you suddenly wake up and there's a baby and you may not even realize what happened, because you were not quite capable of following the whole process. Sure that's no easy way out.

Crystalwitch60
Community Member
4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

72 hours in the case of my now 24 yr old lol she didn’t not wanna be born 😂,I had to be induced two weeks early as I ligit couldn’t walk , (two broken backs pre kids ) n her back to back ouch lol n she was having none of it 🤦‍♀️, 45 mins with my now 21 yr old lol , n I was 35 -39 when I had them , but yup it really is a marathon brilliant analogy that one x

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Felicia Baxter
Community Member
2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

my mom had a c-section with our baby sister, she says it was great and she wishes she had done it with me and my other sister

Lady Chelsea (LadyChelseaoftheVoid)
Community Member
4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

yeah, criticize my mama for her c-section and see how long you survive

Ginger ninja
Community Member
4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I didnt realise it was looked down upon. I dont want kids but even as a kid myself I have always thought I would request a c-section rather than naturally

snifflymango04
Community Member
4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've never understood this. Yes, if you can do it all naturally, wonderful. But throughout history childbirth has been one of leading causes of death for women and babies. That's why medical intervention exists. Would those same women refuse chemotherapy because it's the "easy way" to treat cancer??

Crystalwitch60
Community Member
4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why the hell does this still happen , ok I know some women are to bloody posh to push , ie the social media show offs ! But 99% of csections are not that ,they are life saving ,emergencies!!! You literally have no say over 🤷‍♀️or scheduled for a health reason , you,ve still given birth!! You’re still a mother ! n tbh only idiot show offs would CHOOSE these ! No normal woman wants one ffs so if someone has had one DONT JUDGE ! oh n men don’t tell your wife she’s not normal cos she had to have one either !! when the choice is literally c section or lose the baby or even die yourself !! I’d take the c section EVERY time !

Jesha
Community Member
4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh dude my friend got in with a group of granola-moms like this and developed SUCh a complex. It took me and her husband years to convince her that, no, she was actually a mom. Those are children she had.

SchadenFreudian Psychology
Community Member
4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

FFS. If it’s not YOUR baby, it’s none of your business.

Amanda Reinstatler
Community Member
4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I did not know this was a thing. But we will shame women for ANYTHING. Ive seen brand new mothers get scolded by complete a*****e strangers for not breat feeding. MIND YOUR OWN D**N BIDNESS!!!!

Eliza Osenbaugh-Stewart
Community Member
4 months ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

I don't know anyone who does this. I am a natural birth momma and hate the epidemic of c sections but I view the mothers that have them with pity, not distain. Either they experienced a medical emergency or the had an unnecessary procedure pushed on them. Neither is their fault

BeesEelsAndPups
Community Member
4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't think you realize how ironic your statement is madam

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If you're a woman, there's a good chance you might agree that it's not an easy road to walk. Or run. We carry a lot on our shoulders, and in our wombs, and get little thanks in return. So why then do we make life even harder for our fellow women?

Toxic femininity refers to a "rigid and repressive definition of womanhood, including pressures women face to restrict themselves to stereotypically feminine traits and characteristics." That's according to VeryWellMind. The site adds that toxic femininity is also the "adherence to the gender binary to receive conditional value in patriarchal societies."

Basically, women feel they must behave in very traditional, "feminine" ways in order to hold a place in society, or be valued in a male-dominated world.

RELATED:
    #2

    Woman expressing frustration during a heated conversation, illustrating toxic femininity behaviors in a casual home setting. The constant man-hating. The women who in every single situation just suddenly go off and start yelling about how terrible all men are ever, when the situation doesn't actually have anything to do with it.

    xxxSnowLillyxxx , Blake Cheek Report

    R Dennis
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I mentioned on BP about helping my daughter with her struggles during her menstrual cycle. I discussed it with her mom and we talked to her together... she DOES get emotionally sensitive at the time. We had an open, loving talk about it and came away from it in a good place. At least two women on here attacked me "How DARE you say that!" "How DARE you, as A MAN, talk to your daughter, A WOMAN, about something you don't experience!" Ffs, I'm her father and wanted to help her with her sadness and frustration... I should just let her suffer and pretend she isn't?!

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    #3

    Young woman sitting on floor leaning against bed, appearing reflective, illustrating behaviors related to toxic femininity. Ignoring women's childfree choices...'you might change your mind' or 'you never know...'.

    Nopenotme77 , Meg Aghamyan Report

    Lucifer
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Every one of these tropes (get married, have a bunch of children, trad wives etc.) are deeply rooted in religion, especially the b*********d versions of religion.

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    Us ladies are told we must be gentle, quiet, and self-sacrificing. We have to have empathy, sensitivity, and gracefulness. Be a good girl... Put up with sh*t at the expense of our happiness. All of these beliefs limit women from being their true selves. Or living their best (authentic) lives.

    "If toxic masculinity encourages violence and domination in order to uphold an unequal power dynamic, then toxic femininity supports silent acceptance of violence and domination in order to survive," explains VeryWellMind.

    #4

    Woman playing with young boy outdoors, capturing a moment that contrasts common toxic femininity behaviors. I’m going to add to this in a very specific way. BOY MOM S**T.
    When mother in laws side with their sons rather than their daughter in law even though the son is very obviously in the wrong or equally at fault. Mothers should be able to view their children, male or female, with a clear lens. You are not being a protective mother, you are being toxic. You are failing yourself, your son and their relationship because you are incapable of seeing that your son has flaws and is capable of making bad decisions like everyone else on earth. Now, other family members shouldn’t even be involved in most disagreements or arguments, but IF they happen to be, they either need to stay out of it or treat each side with understanding.
    Sometimes it doesn’t even have to be an argument between the couple. It could even be something that just happens to upset/bother the mother.
    My own mom has blamed my sister in laws for joint marriage decisions. They spent too much money? Automatically the woman’s fault. They eat out too much? Daughter in law should be cooking more. Kid has a cavity? Why isn’t daughter in law brushing their teeth better?!
    Somehow, it falls on women. I’ve seen it within my own family and many others.
    Toxic s**t.

    mooiee , Gabe Pierce Report

    PandaPadi
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Oh my, thats so true. The number of time I get blamed for everything I could have done better for my kid especially when I was a single mum- my child catch a flu at school, I get blamed for it, child falls down while playing, I get blamed. While her bio dad is a deadbeat and I dont remember anyone saying anything about it.

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    #5

    Young woman with red hair wrapped in a blanket, appearing stressed and reflecting on toxic femininity behaviors. -Judging women for wearing makeup and also in turn judging women for not wearing makeup.
    -Other women enforcing and judging for not fitting into societal beauty standards, I have a coworker who dresses more on the casual side for work and gets judged for it even though it’s not an issue for any authority figures at my job
    -judging other women for choosing to be childless
    -judging other women for choosing to be housewives
    -writing off other women’s struggles and emotions that involve a toxic spouse, siding with the man because “girls are crazy”
    -mothers of adult women treating them like they have no worth if they aren’t married and catering to their husbands
    -expectations of weight and overall appearances that are enforced by other women

    Internalized misogyny makes me so sad when I witness it in real time from the women in my life. There’s so much pressure from every angle to be a certain way, act a certain way. You’re either too much or not enough as a woman.

    atinypeach , Valeriia Miller Report

    Becca not Becky
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    100% this. If women are making the best decisions for themselves without hurting anyone, why judge?

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    #6

    Two women drinking wine outdoors, illustrating social behaviors linked to toxic femininity traits. Tearing other women down out of jealousy.

    fieryroe , Curated Lifestyle Report

    Toxic masculinity states that men are tough. There's no time for tears or softness. And certainly no place for "girly" emotions, or anything considered feminine...

    But toxic femininity isn't so far from it. It pressures women to be "quiet, nurturing, submissive, and attractive," notes the site, adding that 'womanhood' in this instance is defined in a "very shallow manner that objectifies and harms women."

    #7

    “We Know What Toxic Masculinity Looks Like, What Does Toxic Femininity Look Like?” (44 Answers) I once had a stranger (woman) in a restaurant compliment my shirt and tell me the color looked good on me. I immediately thought she was making fun of me somehow and being a “mean girl”. Because that’s how other girls/women treated me my whole life. She was just being nice. The mean girl mentality is toxic and definitely scarred me. I’ve since made friends with women who lift me up as friends should. We need to stop being judgy a******s to each other.

    SleepLivid988 , Tim Douglas/Pexels Report

    Susie Elle
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Ooof, same! It was so normal in my youth that my brain almost automatically goes towards something unfriendly, I hate it.

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    #8

    Young woman examining her face thoughtfully in a round mirror, illustrating toxic femininity behaviors concept. Judging other women for their appearance. Being agist. Judging women for what they wear.

    PrincessTiaraLove , Getty Images Report

    Papa
    Community Member
    4 months ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I think the thing about two women not wanting to be seen wearing the same dress at an event, or a celebrity wearing clothing she's been seen in before, is similar to this. You can bet that any criticism they get about it comes from other women. Men probably didn't even notice, and if they did they didn't care.

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    #9

    Woman in a white dress holding wildflowers outdoors, illustrating behaviors associated with toxic femininity in a natural setting. Mormon trad wives influencers who think their performative homesteading and raising 10+ children is peak feminism. When really the patriarchal and deeply oppressive systems they were born into and brainwashed by their entire lives = they never had any other choice.

    Fancy_Documents , Jordan González Report

    BeesEelsAndPups
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    ORRR! This is actually what they want, and they are happy, and that's totally fine for them to live that way. But they shouldn't also be telling women who DON'T live that way that they are wrong.

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    Toxic femininity seems to be ever-changing... One minute, women are lauded for the being child-free, the next they are chastized. Today, women must wear make-up to work, tomorrow, they're criticized for wearing too much.

    "Women who adhere to toxic femininity may be rewarded in society, and those who do not may be punished, which is a dynamic enforced by those with power to maintain their power," notes VeryWellMind.

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    #10

    Person standing in a kitchen holding cleaning supplies and a broom, illustrating toxic femininity behaviors. Women should know how to cook, clean and care for kids just because they are women. As if we were born with a broom in one hand and a pot in the other.

    onlytexts , Josue Michel Report

    R Dennis
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Everyone should know how to cook, clean, and care for themselves.

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    #11

    “We Know What Toxic Masculinity Looks Like, What Does Toxic Femininity Look Like?” (44 Answers) Expecting people to make babies like it’s the only option. .

    mongooser , Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels Report

    #12

    Two women in a kitchen displaying toxic femininity behaviors during a heated argument and emotional confrontation. Cattiness to women who don’t conform to the in-group.

    Trouvette , Getty Images Report

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    "Rather than encouraging, supporting, and celebrating women to be fully expressed as they are, toxic femininity pressures women to feel apologetic, confused, and ashamed for their non-gender stereotype-confirming thoughts, ideas, and beliefs," cautions the site.

    And what happens? Some women don't do perfectly normal things, like speaking up for themselves or showing confidence, because they're scared of being judged.

    #13

    Woman sitting on the floor with head down, expressing emotions related to toxic femininity behaviors and struggles. Skinny women not able to talk about their issues because "they have none if they are skinny"

    Im sorry? Yes we do. Ive had eating disorders my whole life and been underweight but ya know who cares bc its related to being skinny.

    Also the whole "housewife" thing, just because im a woman does not mean i should stay home and cook, take care of a child and clean. I want to work.

    Chezm2beme2 , freepik Report

    Child of the Stars
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I lost 25 pounds after my son was born because I developed a thyroid disorder. The number of women who expressed their envy was startling. Dude, my thyroid tried to K.ILL ME postpartum, it wasn't something to celebrate.

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    #14

    Woman resting in bed with eyes closed, showing signs of stress and fatigue related to toxic femininity behaviors. "Women weren't meant to...", generally followed by nonsense designed to make us weak, dependent and without societal power. I really, really worry about a lot of "soft life" content geared towards women because of this. Like, yes, hustle culture is toxic and folks should be ok not constantly running the corporate rat race, but the problem is capitalism, not your menstrual cycle.

    Do you REALLY think your homemaker foremothers weren't working hard even during their luteal phase? My grandmother was a grown a*s adult before she had a washing machine and I assure you, keeping a home was hard a*s physical work. My grandparents and parents were bound and determined that I get an education BECAUSE they realized that office work was so much easier. Unless your ancestors were wealthy, they ALWAYS worked very hard.

    bookgirl9878 , Pablo Merchán Montes Report

    Susie Elle
    Community Member
    4 months ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Being a homemaker before, say, the 70's was hard af. It still is, but for a whole other set of reasons. EDIT: No, let me rephrase; I don't think in any point in history homemaking was ever easy or not-work.

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    #15

    Three women laughing together outdoors in warm sunlight, illustrating social behaviors linked to toxic femininity. Toxic femininity….being overly passive and people pleasing. Petty, gossipy and backstabbing.

    Helpless damsel in distress who can’t do anything without a “big strong man.”

    Disempowers herself. Manipulative, especially with emotions. Judgmental. Mean girl energy.

    Amrick , Priscilla Du Preez Report

    Magna Linnevers
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Sadly I’m a damsel in distress because I’m too dang short to do anything…

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    #16

    A group of young adults outdoors laughing and enjoying themselves, illustrating common toxic femininity behaviors. Pick-me behavior; “I’m not like other girls because I like (insert stereotypically male hobby here), and that alone makes me better than other women”.

    coccopuffs606 , Kampus Production Report

    Magna Linnevers
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I’m a tomboy, granted at my age it doesn’t matter, but through my whole life I never advertised it. It was just me, it either worked for other people or it didn’t. Been with the same man for 25 yrs and we have “his & hers” circular saws because we both love wood working. He’s a lefty.

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    #17

    Young woman expressing confusion and indifference, illustrating behaviors linked to toxic femininity in a casual setting. Women who pretend to be dumb or believe that being smart is an option.

    skyepark , Polina Zimmerman Report

    lenka
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I think there is a mistake here. Is it supposed to read "believe that being smart is NOT an option". Otherwise it doesn't make sense.

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    #18

    Young woman showing signs of stress and frustration at desk, illustrating toxic femininity behaviors concept. Helpless princess - in need of rescue all the time.

    Why_So_Slow , Getty Images Report

    BeesEelsAndPups
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I see this problem in men far more often than in women. Too many men don't know how to care for themselves

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    #19

    A woman sitting on the floor hugging a smiling girl, illustrating behaviors linked to toxic femininity. Smother Mothers. Moms who keep their kids dependent to them so they are always needed. Classic cause of failure to launch.

    /justnomil is just full of them.

    anillop , Brooke Cagle Report

    #20

    Two women seated on a couch sharing a secret while drinking coffee, illustrating toxic femininity behaviors concept. If toxic masculinity is men shaming men for being not stereotypically masculine enough, toxic femininity is shaming other women for not being stereotypically feminine enough examples:

    S**t shaming other women for not being stereotypically demure and also shaming partners who have a higher s*x than they do for wanting to sleep with them, because women aren't supposed to want s*x.

    Being miserable as a parent but trying to get child-free women to have babies too, and having children to avoid getting a job.

    Being rude to people in public, safe in the knowledge they won't get assaulted for it,becayse they're a weak and feeble woman.

    Being critical of other women's looks, for not being feminine enough (or of men, for being too feminine).

    MsAndrea , Getty Images Report

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    #21

    Young woman with curly hair and red lipstick looking suspicious, illustrating toxic femininity behaviors concept. “Mean Girl” behavior, such as being catty, making backhanded remarks, talking behind people’s backs… Also that whole “I’m not like other girls” mindset.

    PDXFaeriePrincess , Polina Zimmerman Report

    Crystalwitch60
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My mindset on women talking about me behind my back is , they are sensible enough not to say it to my face !!!! 😂

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    #22

    “We Know What Toxic Masculinity Looks Like, What Does Toxic Femininity Look Like?” (44 Answers) Supporting women's wrongdoings.
    Being held accountable should be an equal matter.

    cats_and_tea7 , RDNE Stock project Report

    lenka
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You might need to elaborate on this one.

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    #23

    Two women sitting on a bench applying makeup, illustrating behaviors associated with toxic femininity in social settings. The sense of superiority some women have for performing "femininity" better. The gender roles are what makes it so toxic on both ends. "You're not a real woman unless/until _____" (had kids, got married, whatever).

    zahhakk , Beth Macdonald Report

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    #24

    Young woman covering her face in distress, sitting near window, illustrating toxic femininity behaviors and emotional struggle. Women who weaponize their anger, entitlement and tears.

    BeccaSez , freepik Report

    Vinnie
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This one is vague and hard to interpret. If someone is upset for good reason, that's not "weaponizing". It is weaponizing if they ram through others' boundaries, dismiss their feelings, make unreasonable demands.

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    #25

    “We Know What Toxic Masculinity Looks Like, What Does Toxic Femininity Look Like?” (44 Answers) Trad wives, boy moms, dissing women who don't have kids for whatever reason, body shaming, dissing mothers who have c sections, dissing mothers who can't breastfeed, gatekeeping trans women,.

    Elk_Electrical , Getty Images Report

    Amanda Reinstatler
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Some people will sink to the lowest depths to feel superior

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    #26

    “We Know What Toxic Masculinity Looks Like, What Does Toxic Femininity Look Like?” (44 Answers) I see so many women treat men like utter garbage now. Women are angry and thats understandable, but omg some of the man hating posts I see are insane. Two wrongs don’t make a right.

    smalleststatue , Getty Images Report

    Amanda Reinstatler
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And saying that "All Xes are this and if you are Y then you are THAT. You cannot define ALL by looking at ONE

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    #27

    Young woman smiling outdoors in denim jacket, representing behaviors linked to toxic femininity traits and attitude. The first thing that comes to mind is the whole "I'm just a girl" thing. It's toxic because the repetition and ubiquity of the "tee-hee, women aren't people!" nonsense can normalize "women aren't people" in people at large. F**k off. That's not the point of the song and that's also not cute.

    Edit: Also! This has already been said elsewhere in this thread but I want to echo it: Toxic femininity is also excluding trans women, or insisting that being assigned female at birth is the be-all and end-all of being a woman. Trans women are women. Trans men are men.

    **Second Edit:** Idgaf why you, personally, use the phrase "I'm just a girl" and why your own personal use is *totally* not toxic femininity and *totally* doesn't contribute to other people accepting the idea that women aren't people. I answered the OP's question. Move along.

    kaeorin , Slav Romanov Report

    Mike F
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Methinks the OP got some push back on this post.

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    #28

    “We Know What Toxic Masculinity Looks Like, What Does Toxic Femininity Look Like?” (44 Answers) I think that would be women who try to control other women’s choices. Ones who say everyone should have a big family and ones who say all women should reject traditional lives.

    Also women who use feminism as an excuse to hate men and women who use things like false (TW) >!r**e!< accusations to control men.

    majesticSkyZombie , Nini FromParis Report

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    #29

    Person with curly hair and red lipstick holding glasses, displaying confidence and subtle signs of toxic femininity behavior. Im gonna say it, but transphobia. A lot of ciswomen don’t accept trans women because “they can’t give birth” or “have periods” or havent “suffered the way real women do” but I think attributing the experience of being a “real” woman only to the fact that we suffer discredits the beautiful things about womanhood and the way we experience the world. We don’t have to suffer to be considered a woman, we just have to live as truly as we can in any way that feels true!! And i think toxic femininity is attributing our experience to the harm we face.

    Imagination_factory , Levi Meir Clancy Report

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    #30

    Young woman wearing sunglasses and trendy outfit using smartphone outdoors, illustrating toxic femininity behaviors concept. The whole "divine femininity" b******t that I see all over TikTok. I'm sick of seeing these videos of "empowered" women talking about how to find a man in his "masculinity" so you can reach your "divine feminine." And then it's being touted as feminism. Give me a break.

    PlentyNectarine , BYB BYB Report

    Susie Elle
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We all take a sh*t every day (or other day, or week), is what my mom used to say, lmao

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    #31

    Two people outdoors near trees, with a woman gesturing while discussing behaviors related to toxic femininity. Ironically, a lot of the women who talk about toxic masculinity. The ones who call anything a man says “mansplaining” or make broad, sweeping statements about what men are or are not capable of. It’s mind blowing that they don’t see the issue in this line of thinking.

    mizmaclean , Priscilla Du Preez Report

    Susie Elle
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm so done with the mansplaining trope. Not everything that comes out of a man's mouth is mansplaining, sometimes people just want to tell you something while unaware you're actually very knowledgable on said topic. And no, I'm not 'nOT lIkE othEr gIrlS', I'm just tired and cranky, lmao

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    #32

    “We Know What Toxic Masculinity Looks Like, What Does Toxic Femininity Look Like?” (44 Answers) Assuming there is only one way to be a woman like having children, wearing makeup, wearing dresses, tearing other women down for not wanting to do the incredible amount of grooming (shaving, eyebrows covering your greys etc) we are expected to do.

    hyperlight85 , Curated Lifestyle Report

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    #33

    “We Know What Toxic Masculinity Looks Like, What Does Toxic Femininity Look Like?” (44 Answers) Judging women for being traditionally feminine.

    Money-Beginning747 , Jordan González Report

    Vinnie
    Community Member
    4 months ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Being feminine doesn't prevent anyone (male, female or other) from being intelligent or tough.

    #34

    “We Know What Toxic Masculinity Looks Like, What Does Toxic Femininity Look Like?” (44 Answers) Looking down upon women in their 30s and 40s who choose to be childless.

    mzkns , rido81 Report

    Child of the Stars
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I hate the term "childless," as if not being a parent means you're missing something meaningful. And I say this as a mother of two who enjoys the whole experience of parenting. My best friend is childfree, and they have a lot of fulfillment in their life. It's just a different choice they made.

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    #35

    Young woman applying makeup in front of a mirror, illustrating behaviors related to toxic femininity concepts. Any form of "you can't be a woman if X" type s**t. Anything that says womanhood and feminity has to be expressed/experienced a specific way.

    This can be anything from discriminating against trans women to enforcing toxic beauty standards that are incompatible with the human body.

    Its hard enough to be a woman as it is, toxic feminity just makes it harder by trying to cut down other women to feel a sense of superiority.

    interstellersjay , 琎达 黄 Report

    #36

    “We Know What Toxic Masculinity Looks Like, What Does Toxic Femininity Look Like?” (44 Answers) Women who purposely act dumb or less than to be liked, usually by men. Aka the pick me's.

    StrongFreeBrave , Brock Wegner Report

    Vinnie
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Then there are the ones who act a bit dumb to get information. "But I didn't think she was going to open a brewery to rival mine!"

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    #37

    “We Know What Toxic Masculinity Looks Like, What Does Toxic Femininity Look Like?” (44 Answers) I think both toxic masculinity and toxic femininity would stem from following classical patriarchal values. Men can’t show emotions, women should be submissive and in the kitchen, etc etc.

    maddiemandie , Mike Jones Report

    Amanda Reinstatler
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We get so many things wrong simply by overcompensating.....something is wrong, and we go waaaay too far to fix it. So its different, but its still WRONG. We need balance.

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    #38

    “We Know What Toxic Masculinity Looks Like, What Does Toxic Femininity Look Like?” (44 Answers) Insisting certain characteristics make you a "real woman" (having a uterus, having kids, being married, etc.).

    Sandwitch_horror , Liza Summer Report

    Aileen Grist
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm a born woman - I'm now 70. I've never been able to have children, I'm obese and I've been shaving my face since I was a teenager. I've been accused of not being a 'real' woman many times.

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    #39

    Mother and daughter laughing outdoors in a field, illustrating contrasting themes related to toxic femininity behaviors. Thinking being a woman makes you innately anything and every woman has to nurture/be even tempered/love kids/sacrifice/want to be pretty/be sweet etc. etc. to be worthy. In the same way, they think men also are innately anything, making it a toxic environment for everybody that doesn't naturally fit the mold. .

    SnookerandWhiskey , Getty Images Report

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    #40

    “We Know What Toxic Masculinity Looks Like, What Does Toxic Femininity Look Like?” (44 Answers) Tomi Lahren, Laura Loomer, and all the trad wife influencers. Internalized misogyny and denial.

    soradsauce , Michael Heise Report

    That tired person
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I dont mind the trad wife thing but only if YOU consent to it and only if your partner is providing you with enough money to do what you want to do

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    #41

    Young woman with eyes closed, hand on chest, reflecting on behaviors related to toxic femininity. “Divine femininity” as a thing to attract “high value” men. The idea that being assertive or independent means you are acting “masculine,” which will make you unattractive to men. This also ties into the trad wife and SAHgf trends on social media these days.

    5leeplessinvancouver , Darius Bashar Report

    Child of the Stars
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I despise the whole "goddess" thing on the flip side. I'm not a goddess, nor am I a servant to anyone. I'm just a person who happens to have the female reproductive organs, nothing more or less.

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    #42

    Mother holding baby close and smiling warmly, illustrating gentle behaviors related to toxic femininity concepts. - The attitude that motherhood is some sort of higher calling that all women should aspire to and be honored to participate in, and that any women who doesn't want to be a mother, or doesn't want to be pregnant, or "takes the easy way out" (by having a C-section or using formula or having medical care at all, etc.) is *less than*; that pregnancy and motherhood are supposed to be painful and unpleasant and we shouldn't expect our partners to help or share any of the burden, because it's just our lot in life to suffer and sacrifice in silence.

    - That women are a monolith and all have the same stereotypical interests: pink and sparkly things, shopping, beauty, skincare, getting their nails done, fashion, expensive jewelry and handbags and shoes. Women who don't share these are seen as "unusual" or "tomboys".

    - That women should all aspire to the physical "feminine ideals" of being thin (but not too thin) with developed breasts, hips, and butt, long hair, tasteful makeup, little to no body hair, small hands and feet, modest dress, etc. Putting down other women for being "trashy" or "masculine", etc.

    - That you should like/enjoy s*x a little, but not *too* much; that you're mostly just doing it to keep men happy - and therefore should not experience arousal or desire in the absence of a man. That your sexual satisfaction should be derived entirely from vaginal penetration and should not require any additional stimulation.

    - That certain things are either primarily or entirely a woman's job in a (heterosexual) relationship: cooking, cleaning, decorating, childcare, the mental load of remembering appointments and birthdays and such.

    - Many other aspects that boil down to internalized misogyny. That "boys will be boys" and women should keep to themselves and ignore or tolerate them, and/or take care of them and clean up after them.

    - Honorable Mention: Girl Dinner. This one always bothered me because I feel like it's making light of the fact that many women are so burnt out by having the sole responsibility of preparing 1 - 3 meals per day for themselves and others that at the first opportunity they just grab a handful of snacks to sustain themselves. I've heard from many women that when they were single they ate really simple meals, but once they got into a relationship, there was this unspoken (or sometimes explicit) pressure that every meal should be home-cooked and balanced, with a protein and sides.

    Charloxaphian , Jonathan Borba Report

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    #43

    Young woman in a hoodie hugging herself with eyes closed, reflecting on toxic femininity behaviors and emotions. What a "real woman" looks like. A real woman has curves, a real woman has b***s, a real woman has an a*s.

    If you're rail thin, zero chest, no a*s, you're looked at like a child. Most clothes are made for bigger b***s (C cup and up) or made for women that actually have an a*s. So finding a top and pants that fit and don't sag is awful. Its demoralizing and makes you feel sub human in a way. But then you're skinny, so you're not allowed to talk about it and you're not allowed to have those issues.

    You people who are replying that "well I have X size b***s or I have an a*s and clothes still don't fit!" that's not my point. You still have a womanly body. You still look like a woman. You actually have b***s to talk about and an a*s to talk about. When you have a body that again, rail thin, no chest, no a*s, no curves, nothing; you do not feel womanly or feminine. It f***s with your head. You people are literally proving my point of those of us who are rail thin and skinny, you cannot talk about it because we will be invalided every single time. This particular issue; is hardly ever talked about. You hardly see any representation for our body type either simply because; its not a womanly or feminine body type.

    Cautious_Ice_884 , freepik Report

    hannahbahngswife
    Community Member
    4 months ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm not fluent enough in English to understand everything perfectly, but isn't OP quite hypocritical here for saying "You people who are replying that [...] It f***s with your head." Like. Both sides I'm pretty sure have insecurities. I could be wrong, but OP's comment is the thing that feels like toxic feminity here. But again, I could be wrong. Please correct me if so!

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    #44

    “We Know What Toxic Masculinity Looks Like, What Does Toxic Femininity Look Like?” (44 Answers) Wizard Liz.

    Also men hating and how men are always wrong, have to pay for everything when.. we are fighting for equality.

    greatestshow111 , Getty Images Report

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